By Ethan Covey
A recently published CDC study found that bisexual and transgender adults were nearly twice as likely to experience loneliness than their straight and cisgender counterparts, as well as stress, frequent mental distress and a history of depression (MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2024;73[24]:539-545).
Loneliness and lack of social connection are widespread in the United States and can threaten a patient’s mental and physical health. the report said.
“This report shows that loneliness and lack of social and emotional support are associated with depression and stress, especially among certain groups,” said Katherine V. Bruss, PsyD, of the Division of Population Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC.
“Most previous studies have not included data on sexual orientation, gender identity or other social factors, which makes it challenging for researchers to identify how these issues impact different segments of the population,” Dr. Bruss added. “This report highlights the importance of integrating demographics and standardized measures of social connection into existing data systems and public health frameworks and initiatives.”
The study focused on data from 26 U.S. states participating in the 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
The prevalence of loneliness was highest among respondents who identified as bisexual (56.7%) and transgender (56.4%-63.9%). A lack of social and emotional support also was highest among those who identified as transgender female (44.8%), transgender and gender nonconforming (41.4%), and those with a household income below $25,000 (39.8%).
Stress, frequent mental distress and history of depression were highest among bisexual (34.3%-54.4%) and transgender adults (36.1%-67.2%).
Loneliness was lowest among non-Hispanic white adults and individuals who had two adults living in a household. Although loneliness was more common among women than men (33.5% vs. 30.7%), lack of social connection and emotional support was more common among men than women (22.3% vs. 26.1%).
“As we continue to learn more about the negative health effects of loneliness and isolation, improved surveillance can identify risk factors and help guide solutions to address the harmful impacts,” Dr. Bruss said. “Future research is needed to identify evidence-based interventions and strategies to address social connection as a protective factor for mental health and well-being, especially for those who face health inequities.”
